Authorities have confirmed the tragic loss of at least 50 lives, including 15 children, due to severe flash floods in central Texas. As rescue teams work tirelessly, the search continues for missing campers, vacationers, and residents.
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Reports indicate that over 850 individuals have been rescued, many of whom were found clinging to trees after an unexpected storm unleashed up to 38 cm of rain in the Guadalupe River area, approximately 137 km northwest of San Antonio.
Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice shared during a press conference that 27 girls from Camp Mystic are among the missing. “We are kind of looking at this in two ways called the known missing, which is the 27… We will not put a number on the other side because we just don’t know,” Mr. Rice stated.
Images from Camp Mystic show rooms devastated by floodwaters, a stark reminder of the disaster that struck so suddenly.
The catastrophic events unfolded rapidly Friday morning, as rainfall exceeded forecasts, causing river levels to soar to as high as 29 feet. “We know that the rivers rise, but nobody saw this coming,” remarked Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, the top local official.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha noted that of the confirmed deceased, eight—three of whom were children—remain unidentified. The U.S. National Weather Service reported that while the flash flood emergency appears to have subsided for Kerr County, following thunderstorms that delivered over a foot of rain (half of the region’s typical annual total), a flood watch is still in effect until 7 PM for the surrounding areas.
Located in Texas Hill Country, a rural region celebrated for its rugged terrain and historic charm, Kerr County has seen an influx of visitors celebrating Independence Day by the river, as noted by Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick: “We don’t know how many people were in tents on the side, in small trailers by the side, in rented homes by the side.”
At the time of the flood, Camp Mystic had around 700 girls in residence. Another nearby camp, Heart O’ the Hills, confirmed the passing of co-owner Jane Ragsdale but noted that no campers were present due to the camp being between sessions.
In response to the calamity, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced his request for a disaster declaration from President Donald Trump, a move that would mobilize federal assistance for the affected residents. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem affirmed that the President would honor this request. Earlier, President Trump expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “Our Brave First Responders are on site doing what they do best.”
While the federal government’s role in disaster responses has been a topic of discussion, local communities continue to rely heavily on timely assistance. As videos circulating online showcase bare concrete pads where homes once stood and debris littering the riverbanks, rescuers have been seen forming human chains to extract residents stranded on rooftops and in trees, highlighting their unwavering dedication.
The dramatic flooding took many by surprise, occurring before dawn on Friday and preventing authorities from issuing timely evacuation orders. Ms. Noem emphasized that the “moderate” flood watch issued the day before did not adequately forecast the extreme rainfall, indicating a need for improvements in the warning system.
The administration’s previous reductions in staffing at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have raised concerns about the agency’s capacity to provide accurate forecasts. Former NOAA Director Rick Spinrad pointed out, “People’s ability to prepare for these storms will be compromised. It undoubtedly means that additional lives will be lost and probably more property damage.” This assertion underscores the critical importance of timely and effective communication to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters.
As Texas grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, the efforts of first responders and community resilience shine through the darkness.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
